Spring Crime Prevention Tips

As the weather warms up, we head outside to tackle our home improvement and lawn projects. Bexar County Constable Mark Vojvodich cautions us to be mindful of our property, because thieves are also responding to the spring season.

He reminds us to secure all lawn and gardening equipment in your garage or a storage shed, even when you're doing work around the house.

“Guard your yard and garden equipment,” he said. “You’ll go inside for ‘just a minute’ to get a glass of tea, and when you come out, your weed eater or lawn mower will be gone.”

He also recommends keeping your garage doors closed at all times. “When your garage doors are up, you’re showing everybody what you have, like that nice power washer or the box from your new TV. Worst case, you’ve allowed someone access into your house through the open garage.”

Not only should you close your garage door, always keep your home's doors and windows locked when you go to bed or leave your house, even if you are leaving for a short period.

Driveway theft is another problem, he said. Remember to close your car windows, take any valuables out of your car, and lock your doors every time you exit.

Be aware of home improvements scams, he added. If you did not solicit the contractor or salesman who shows up at your door unannounced, do not do business with that person.

His best advice - get to know your neighbors! Let a trusted neighbor know if you are planning to travel this spring. Neighbors who know each other look out for each other. They can spot what’s normal and know if someone doesn’t belong.

If you have any issues in your neighborhood, or if you see anything suspicious, Vojvodich invites you to contact the Bexar County Constable’s office, 210-335-4750, or Bexarpolice.org. He also recommends staying up to date though websites and social media. Be aware, although you may read his messages on neighborhood sites, he cannot see your responses or chats. You much reach out to his office directly.

“We get close to 100 messages a day at the constable’s office,” he said, “and we read every one. We are happy to be a resource to our community.”